The Committee is responsible for raising funds for the restoration and repair of the Church fabric including monuments, ornaments, furnishings and organ. An inspection is undertaken every five years by an architect with detailed knowledge of historic buildings and his last report was completed in the summer of 2024.
As would be expected in a Grade 1 listed building which is more than 600 years old the architect’s report refers to work needed on the steady erosion of the soft red sandstone, pointing, replacing gutters and gullies, work on the Tower, roof tiles and flashings as well as relevelling floors and pathways. In addition to items in his report, there are usually other costs to incur, including drainage and tree work work in the Churchyard. The cost of this work will be around £40,000.
Raising money should be fun and a way of bringing people together in the Parish and surrounding areas. The fundraising activities over the years to cover the ongoing costs of the maintenance and repair of a Grade 1 listed building,which is over 600 years old, have been many and varied including an annual Burns Night at the George and Dragon pub, Race Night at the Cock@Budworth pub, a wide range of activities in and around Arley Hall, a Summer Auction of Promises in the Hopkinson’s garden and others including coffee mornings, scarecrow competition, sponsored walks and bike rides and many more. We have also been touched by the generous donations received from people visiting the Church who have appreciated its many historic and aesthetic features
The Church sits at the very heart of our Parish and feelings about this will be personal to each of us, from those who are committed and regular attenders to others who appreciate its beauty and significance to the community. Whatever our reason, I feel sure you will agree that a properly maintained church is important to us all now and crucial for the next generations.
Jim Martin Chairman
Coach House, Great Budworth CW9 6HB tel 01565 891436 jimmartin100@googlemail.com